The long view for ring spinners
Ring spinning machines are getting longer. And that’s a trend that is noticeable in some markets, where ringframes run to as many as 2,000 spindles – or about 70 metres (m) in length.
USTER SENTINEL is the key to optimised yarn production.
Ring spinning machines are getting longer. And that’s a trend that is noticeable in some markets, where ringframes run to as many as 2,000 spindles – or about 70 metres (m) in length. Even with good human eyesight capable of reaching 5,000 m, it’s still not possible to have a total overview of end-breaks along the full extent of the frame. Only an automated system can monitor if the spindles are all operating correctly.
Since normal walking pace is about 4,000 meters per hour, an operative would typically need about one minute to arrive at an end-break at the last spindle on the frame. So, the spindle could be easily back in action again within two minutes – assuming, of course, that the operative knows exactly where to go…
Ring spinning optimisation
It’s a fact that high-performance potential and enormous ring-spinning machine capacity are worthless if spindles are at a standstill because of end-breaks. USTER SENTINEL is the answer: its bobbin build-up report is the key to optimised yarn production. The system’s unmatched detection of end-breaks provides the basic platform. USTER SENTINEL guides machine operators straight to spindle breaks, through clear and simple indications by red light dots.
End-break levels are a key indicator of ring spinning performance, so USTER SENTINEL’s intuitive bobbin build-up report includes every parameter influencing end-breaks. Clear visuals point to exact reasons for breaks, making optimisation easy. Spinners can then make the required improvements, focused on ambient conditions, wear of mechanical parts and machine speed. With real-time performance info, USTER SENTINEL offers mills the data to raise yarn production efficiency to the next level. Its easy-to-use software gives a rapid, tailor-made overview of machine performance, highlighting exactly the most relevant production and laboratory data. A feature is the real-time information on energy consumption. Only with real-time data can mills take the opportunity of immediate optimisation.
The real difference
Combining this total control of end-breaks with USTER ROVING STOP leverages the efficiency of yarn production. The instant stop of roving feed at an end-break reduces waste significantly and makes raw material usage more cost-effective. Calculations show that 70 per cent less pneumafil waste equates to a saving of nearly 1 per cent in raw material, based on current spinning conditions. Obviously, this makes for a shorter investment payback too.
Reduced levels of waste and uncontrolled fibre fluff prevent quality issues around neighboring spindles and along the entire machine. Better operating conditions and reduced repair times result in higher yield and fewer quality issues. Badly-performing spindles are reliably identified and other issues which often impair the spinning process – such as idle, rogue and uniquely off-quality spindles, as well as spindle slip – are all monitored for fast response.
Summit of production efficiency
Human limitations on eyesight and speed are irrelevant with USTER SENTINEL in place – and even the multiple number of spindles in a ringframe makes no difference. Downtime is kept at the lowest possible level – an unbeatable achievement also thanks to the unique design of USTER’s ring spinning optimisation system. The streamlined and uncluttered profile of the USTER ROVING STOP is geared to optimum machine performance. The distinct compact shape ensures easy and effortless piecing access, since its sensors don’t need to be positioned too close to the ring, which also saves time and speeds up responses.
For the ultimate in quality optimisation, USTER SENTINEL is ready for connection to the Total Testing Center of USTER TESTER 6. Here, data from all spinning processes is integrated and interpreted, providing comprehensive guidance for users to maximise both efficiency and quality.
The Uster Group is the leading high-technology instrument manufacturer of products for quality management for the textile industry. The Group provides testing and monitoring instruments, systems and services that allow optimisation of quality through each individual stage of textile production.
